. >> president obama and i both care about poor and middle-class families. the difference is, my policies will make things better for them. >> reporter: as romney goes on defense, we asked him about the criticism from fellow republicans about his campaign. about those critics within your own party? will there be changes at the top? are you doing anything wrong? >> there are critics and cheerleader cheerleaders. we have people of all different persuasion. >> so, no changes? >> every day, there's improvements and messages that come out. >> reporter: but romney's moment, redefining the moment in a week ago. pressure for romney to perform on that debate stage against the president. you've been practicing. any nerves? >> i don't worry about the opportunity to be on the air and to face the president. he has his views. i have mine. >> reporter: the governor saying he's ready. some are calling that debate a do-o do-or-die moment. i want to take you back to that image. you see the governor there, a young man. etching into the sand, i love ann, missing his girlfriend